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Steakholder Foods, an Israeli cultivated meat company, has introduced the world’s first plant-based, 3D-printed eel using its innovative line of 3D meat printers. The move comes as the global eel market, valued at $4.3 billion in 2022, grapples with issues such as overexploitation and the risk of extinction.

The current iteration of the 3D-printed eel by Steakholder Foods is entirely plant-based, but the company has plans to incorporate ethically harvested eel cells once it becomes economically feasible. The manufacturing process involves a distinctive blend of materials and a precise layering technique to closely mimic the texture and appearance of real meat.

Arik Kaufman, the CEO of Steakholder Foods, hailed the launch of the printed eel as a groundbreaking moment in the seafood industry, highlighting the vast potential of their DropJet technology, specifically designed for fish and seafood printing.

Steakholder Foods envisions scaling up production to an industrial level, providing cost-effective alternatives to wild eel while maintaining the flexibility to produce various printed products. The technology employed allows the company to significantly reduce the ingredients used in its products compared to conventional plant-based alternatives.

Kaufman emphasized that their technology is designed to empower partners to generate products on a potential industrial scale of hundreds of tons monthly, not only at lower costs compared to wild eel but also offering the flexibility to create a range of printed products using the same production line.

The global eel market is currently grappling with challenges such as overexploitation and the threat of species extinction. In response to a surge in demand for seafood and supply constraints, alternative seafood sources utilizing advanced technologies like 3D printing are being explored as potential solutions, notwithstanding challenges such as price and customer acceptance. Other players in the cultivated seafood space, including Konscious Foods and Good Catch, are also making strides in addressing these challenges.

KUALA NERUS: Universiti Malaysia Terengganu (UMT) and its subsidiary, UMT Jaya Holdings Sdn Bhd (UMTJ), are joining forces with the Fisheries Development Authority of Malaysia (LKIM) to advance the Malaysian fisheries industry. The collaboration will introduce and leverage drone technology, Internet of Things (IoT) sensors, and applications (Super Apps) to enhance various aspects of the fisheries sector, including environment, governance, safety, health, and social factors for increased productivity.

Datuk Dr Din Adam, Chairman of UMTJ, highlighted that the collaboration aims to make both organizations pioneers in the use of technology in the national fisheries sector, ultimately benefiting the fishing community. The collaboration encompasses research, expertise sharing, and the use of modern technology to develop and sustainably manage the country’s fisheries.

The initiative will enable UMTJ and LKIM to generate “big data,” facilitating more accurate analyses that can be shared with relevant stakeholders. Din Adam expressed optimism that this joint venture could increase productivity by 30% and fishermen’s income by 25% in the coming years, providing a significant improvement over conventional methods.

He emphasized the importance of improving the socio-economic status of fishermen, ensuring they do not lag behind in the current era of modernity. The collaboration seeks to transform the fisheries industry by harnessing technological advancements to enhance overall efficiency and economic outcomes for the fishing community.

The memorandum of understanding (MoU) signing ceremony between UMTJ and LKIM marked a significant step toward the shared goal of advancing the Malaysian fisheries industry through innovation and technology integration.

The Sri Lankan Navy has arrested 10 Indian fishermen and confiscated their trawler for allegedly poaching in Sri Lanka’s waters, according to an official statement released on Monday, January 15. This incident follows closely on the heels of another where 12 Indian fishermen were apprehended just two days prior on similar charges.

The arrest of the 10 fishermen and the seizure of their trawler took place on Sunday, January 14, north of Point Pedro, Jaffna, as reported by the Sri Lanka Navy. The arrested individuals were escorted to the Kankesanthurai harbour and are slated to be handed over to the Mailadi Fisheries Inspector for further action.

This marks the second such incident within a week, as on Saturday, January 13, 12 Indian fishermen were arrested, and their three trawlers were seized for allegedly engaging in poaching activities in Sri Lankan waters.

The issue of fishermen has been a longstanding point of contention in the relationship between India and Sri Lanka, with instances of the Sri Lankan Navy personnel reportedly firing at Indian fishermen in the Palk Strait and seizing their boats over allegations of illegal entry into Sri Lankan territorial waters.

The Palk Strait, a narrow waterway separating Tamil Nadu from Sri Lanka, serves as a fertile fishing ground for fishermen from both countries. Periodically, there have been cases of Indian fishermen being arrested by Sri Lankan authorities for allegedly crossing the International Maritime Boundary Line and fishing in Sri Lankan waters.

To enhance fishing in communities across England and promote sustainable and resilient fisheries, the Environment Agency has allocated £730,000 in funding through its Fisheries Improvement Programme (FIP). The initiative, now entering its 10th year, aims to support local projects that contribute to the improvement of fishing conditions and practices.

The recent decision by the Environment Agency to trim printing costs by eliminating illustrations from rod licences has resulted in an additional £230,000 being added to the 2024 Fisheries Improvement Programme. This brings the total budget to £730,000, providing a significant financial boost for projects dedicated to fish stock and habitat preservation, improved angler facilities, and expanding fishing opportunities.

Heidi Stone, Environment Agency Fisheries Partnership Manager, expressed enthusiasm about the Fisheries Improvement Programme, highlighting its positive impact on both angling and environmental enhancement. Stone urged interested parties to apply, emphasizing the program’s role in making lasting improvements to fisheries throughout England.

The Environment Agency collaborates closely with various partners, including the Wild Trout Trust, the Canal and River Trust, commercial fisheries, and angling clubs. In the previous fiscal year (2022/23), nearly 200 projects were completed, resulting in improvements along 72km of rivers and 237 hectares of stillwaters.

Noteworthy accomplishments from the previous year’s program include the refurbishment of 20 fishing platforms along the River Severn, habitat workshops benefiting brown trout populations in Northumbria, the provision of safe angling platforms in the North West, and the establishment of a new angling coach lake for juniors and disabled anglers in Bedfordshire.

Shaun Leonard, Director of the Wild Trout Trust, highlighted the positive outcomes from last year’s funding, emphasizing the significance of habitat preservation and the value of large woody material to rivers.

For the current year, the Environment Agency is actively seeking innovative ideas to further enhance local fisheries. All organizations involved in managing fisheries in England, particularly angling clubs, commercial fisheries, and environmental non-governmental organizations, are encouraged to apply for funding to contribute to the ongoing success of the Fisheries Improvement Programme.

Northeast China’s Heilongjiang province witnessed the commencement of its three-month-long winter fishing season as fishermen pulled thousands of fish from a mile-long fish seine on Wednesday. The activity, taking place on Lianhuan Lake in the Mongolian autonomous county of Dorbod, marked the initiation of the harvesting season for ice fishing lakes in the country’s northernmost province.

Local fishermen, chiseling away at the ice to expose water surfaces, strategically selected areas believed to host large shoals of fish. The first catch of the season included a rich variety of fish, including bighead, carp, and crucian, with the largest single net weighing around 150,000 kg, as reported by veteran fisherman Jin Feng.

The ice fishing tradition in Dorbod spans over 1,000 years, and in recent times, the picturesque scene has attracted anglers and tourists, transforming the remote location into a popular tourist attraction. Tourists can not only experience the unique fishing and hunting culture but also enjoy ice sports and savour freshly made fish dishes with local flavours.

The winter fishing season is set to continue until the end of March next year, with 18 counties in nine cities in Heilongjiang planning more than 20 fishing-themed activities, according to Sun Wenzhi, an official from the provincial department of agriculture and rural affairs.

Heilongjiang, with its abundant freshwater resources, has been actively developing the fisheries sector. In 2022, the province cultivated 6.4 million mu (approximately 426,667 hectares) of aquaculture, producing 735,000 tonnes of aquatic products annually.

Despite freezing temperatures reaching minus 20 degrees Celsius, harvested fish are quickly frozen and transported to major Chinese cities like Beijing and Shanghai through cold chain logistics. Zhang Jingfeng, a fish store owner in Fuyuan city, noted that customers receive the fish within two or three days, and sales are brisk.

Zheng Xianhu, deputy director of the Heilongjiang River Fisheries Research Institute, highlighted the establishment of a freshwater aquatic germplasm resource bank, preserving 106 varieties of species. The institute’s innovation includes the cultivation of a boneless crucian carp, reducing the risk of fishbones sticking in diners’ throats and presenting significant economic opportunities.

Wang Zhaocheng, director of provincial agriculture and rural affairs, affirmed the province’s commitment to promoting industrial integration and technological innovation for the continued development of ecological fishery.

Nominations have officially opened for the highly anticipated Aquaculture Awards 2024, recognizing outstanding achievements in the sector over the past year. The prestigious awards, spanning 13 categories, aim to honor individuals, businesses, and projects that have made a significant impact on the aquaculture industry, both domestically and internationally. The deadline for submissions is February 12, and finalists will be unveiled by the judging panel on March 6.

Set to culminate in a grand gala dinner during the Aquaculture UK exhibition in Aviemore on May 15, the awards will celebrate excellence across various facets of the aquaculture community. Categories include accolades for Rising Star, Unsung Hero, Farmer of the Year, Supplier of the Year, Best New Start-Up, and the newly introduced Producer of the Year.

The awards also seek to commend exemplary collaborations, sustainable enterprises, groundbreaking innovations, noteworthy community initiatives, and advocates for animal welfare. The popular Outstanding Contribution award invites the sector to nominate individuals who have significantly influenced the world of aquaculture through extended service, game-changing ideas, or exceptional communication and industry ambassadorship.

In a new addition for 2024, the Judges’ Special Recognition award will be presented to a candidate or company demonstrating commendable commitment and a responsible approach to aquaculture. Joining the esteemed panel of judges this year is independent aquaculture auditor and consultant, Malcolm Johnstone, a well-known figure with extensive experience, particularly in his work with RSPCA Assured.

The event will be hosted by the renowned Scottish comedian Fred MacAulay, known for his contributions to radio and television, including appearances on Mock the Week, Have I Got News, and BBC Radio Scotland.

Cheri Arvonio, the event director, expressed enthusiasm, stating, “The Aquaculture Awards brings everyone together for an evening of celebration and entertainment while highlighting the sector’s most remarkable people. We would like to hear about all those who have gone the extra mile in the past 12 months, be they industry leaders, dedicated farm staff, technical visionaries, or organizations making scientific breakthroughs and driving the sector forward.”

As the industry eagerly awaits the results, the nomination deadline is set for February 12, and the finalists will be announced on March 6. For a comprehensive list of categories and to submit entries for the Aquaculture Awards, please visit aquacultureawards.com